Alternative investment funds are investment solutions that allow investors to participate in exclusive opportunities beyond traditional stocks and mutual funds with the aim of creating superior long-term wealth.
AIFs are classified into three categories:
Category I: Venture capital, SME, social venture, infrastructure funds
Category II: Private equity, debt, fund of funds
Category III: Hedge funds and funds using complex or leveraged strategies
AIFs are generally illiquid investments. Investors usually cannot redeem units on demand and must wait for exits or distributions as investments mature.
Common fees include:
Management fee: Charged annually on committed or invested capital
Performance fee (carry): A share of profits above a defined hurdle rate
Risks may include market risk, illiquidity, leverage risk (especially in Category III), concentration risk, regulatory changes, and valuation uncertainty.